Oral Systemic Link—How It Affects You

Dr. Lodding realizes that Oral Systemic Link may be a term that leaves question marks in many minds: What does it mean? Does it somehow affect me?

Smile for Life Dental based in Elgin, Illinois always strives to keep you informed. The following is a breakdown of the term coined Oral Systemic Link and a meaningful explanation of why it should matter to you.

Oral Systemic Link: “Oral” refers to the health of your teeth and gums. Do you have any infections lurking, such as periodontal disease of your gums? “Systemic” refers to systemic diseases that affect a number of organs and tissues or the body as a whole. Examples of some systemic diseases are: chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), AIDS, Grave’s disease (a thyroid disorder), Lupus erythematosus, and Rheumatoid arthritis. The final word “Link” is just as it sounds—suggesting to you that a direct connection exists between the state of your oral health and the likelihood of having a systemic disease.

Why should you care? Studies are beginning to show that when individuals endure an ongoing oral infection (such as infected gums) there is an increased risk they will also be affected by a systemic disease (like cardiovascular disease) or have that existing systemic disease take a turn for the worse. On a side note, unresolved oral health issues have also been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. It’s serious enough that it should be grabbing your attention right now!

Since the majority of people are unaware when they are harboring oral infections, Dr. Lodding can’t emphasis enough the importance of scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings, and invites you to make an appointment today. Understand how the Oral Systemic Link affects your health and take the responsible precautionary measures now!